Youth - RYE

 

 

 

 

The most powerful force in the promotion of international understanding and peace is exposure to different cultures. The world becomes a smaller and friendlier place when we learn that all people—regardless of nationality— desire the same basic things: a safe, comfortable environment that allows for a rich and satisfying life for our children and ourselves.

Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) provides senior secondary school students with an opportunity to participate in family, cultural and community life in another country over a twelve-month period while attending a secondary school in that country.

Each year a group of inbound students are hosted in Rotary clubs of D9930 and a similar number of outbound students are selected by D9930 Rotary clubs and the District committee for a year overseas.

 

 

This program not only enhances academic growth but also fosters personal development, encouraging participants to become global ambassadors.
Whether it's tasting exotic cuisines, celebrating traditional festivals, or engaging in community service, each moment on exchange enriches your worldview and builds bridges across cultures.
As you step out of your comfort zone, you'll discover the power of empathy and the joy of human connection, preparing you to make a positive impact in an increasingly interconnected world.

To head off on an exchange, you must be prepared to:

 

 

 

Designed for students aged 16-18, RYE offers a year-long exchange experience.
Attend school in a new country, forge lifelong friendships, and broaden your understanding of the world.
Gain invaluable skills such as adaptability, independence, and intercultural communication that will benefit you throughout your life.
Live with host families who provide support and a genuine connection to the local community.
Participate in cultural activities and events, allowing you to share your own culture while learning about others.
Return home with a fresh perspective and stories to share, inspiring others to embark on their own global adventures.

So, How much could this cost?

Overall, the exchange can cost between $18,000 to $30,000 (depending on a range of factors)
Costs like airfares, insurance, and travel deposits are payable up front (around $10,000) while additional costs are throughout the year for living expenses,  clothes, transport, etc.
Your host club will provide you with around $150NZD allowance each month to help with basic costs as well.

How do I apply?

 

Once you have completed your application form, you will be invited to an Interview Day.
Successful applicants will then go on to complete 3 orientations before heading off on their exchange the following January.
Initial applications close 31st March
 

 

Kiwi students leave in January for their twelve-month exchanges and they need a local D9930 club to sponsor them.
The sponsor club pays the initial $100 deposit which contributes towards the students Orientation Costs.

The sponsor club also pays for the students formal uniform ~$200
The sponsor club also appoints a New Zealand Counsellor to support the student while they are overseas (A very minimal role)
If your club is looking to sponsor a student, we also expect you to host a student.

A new aspect of being selected to go on an exchange is that students are required to provide 8 months of host families to reduce the impact on clubs.

Hosting a Student

Students arriving in New Zealand begin their exchange in either January or July.
They will stay with 3-4 host families (8 months of which should be provided by outbound student’s families in the area).
The Host Rotary Club will be required to pay the Inbound Student a monthly allowance of $150. They will also be expected to pay for their school uniform and conference costs.
(reduced costings to be billed to the Club by the RYE Committee).
The students love being involved with their Rotary Clubs, so if you have a meal with your meetings, the club would be expected to cover this cost for the student too.
The Host Rotary Club will also provide a Counsellor for the student

(training will be provided for this role).
Hosting a student can be a very rewarding experience. These young students are the future and lifelong friendships can be made. They bring fresh perspectives, cultural insights, and enthusiasm that can invigorate the club and the community.

Engaging with exchange students offers the opportunity to share New Zealand’s rich culture and traditions while also learning about life in another part of the world.
By being a host, you are not only providing a home away from home but also playing a vital role in shaping a young person's global outlook.

It’s a chance to foster international understanding and goodwill, aligning with the core values of Rotary.
If your club is interested in becoming a sponsor or host, please contact the District Youth Exchange Committee for more information on how to get involved.

Together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of these students and contribute to a more connected and compassionate world.